I’m very careful not to try to come across as a know-it-all. After all, I’m a 31-year-old Pastor with only about a dozen years of experience. So I’m really glad when someone like Ed Stetzer writes what just happens to be on my heart as well. Ed is a part of the Southern Baptist Convention, so his comments address the SBC. But I see the same issues at work in the BMA of America, my own denomination, and a host of other conservative groups.
I would encourage you to read his article about stemming SBC membership decline.
Next week, I have an opportunity of which I feel very unworthy. I’ve been asked to preach the closing message of one of the BMA’s annual Missions Symposiums which will take place in Forney, Texas. I’m praying hard about the message, but the theme is already set – “Search & Rescue!” As I think about the sense of urgency with which we need to approach matters among our churches, here are some of the general thoughts swirling through my mind as I prepare…
- We’re more disconnected with our culture than we’ve ever been.
- Disconnecting with culture is praised by many as ‘separation.’
- I believe in separation from sin and sinful thinking patterns, not from people.
- In our culture, we fight an intellectual and even informational battle for which we are ill-equipped.
- A whole generation is at stake.
- Jesus has the only answer – His infallible Word!
- Oh, we’re a bit illiterate on that front too! We need a revival of emphasis on God’s Word.
- Jesus is coming soon.
- Excellence matters!
- The story has never changed, we just need to learn to tell it well.
I know, a pretty disorganized list. I’ll post again as it begins to come together in the form of a message. Pray for me. I’m a bit overwhelmed by this opportunity and pray God uses it in my life and the lives of attendees.
